Packers work on a production line, putting manufactured goods and products into containers such as boxes, trays, bags and crates. Some packers work by hand at a conveyor belt; others operate packing machines, loading the raw materials, packaging and labels. In the case of heavy goods, for example washing machines or vehicle spares, packers use loading and lifting gear.

Packaging is used for many reasons:

• to protect goods during transportation
• to preserve perishable goods
• to give products an attractive appearance
• to advertise the product to increase sales.

Packers' duties also include:

• adding protective materials to packaged goods, such as bubble wrap and polystyrene chips
• sealing packaged goods with glue, staples or shrink-wrap
• weighing and labelling packaged goods ready for distribution
• cleaning work areas
• reporting any problems during the shift to supervisors.

With experience, packers carry out sampling and testing duties as part of quality control procedures. Some packers operate forklift trucks to move the goods to storage areas ready for loading and dispatch.

Packers have to adhere to health and safety regulations, particularly when packing hazardous materials.

Hours and Environment

Packers usually work a 37- to 40-hour week, often covering shifts to include weekends or nights. Part-time work is common and there may be overtime.

Many packers work in factories and spend most of their time sitting or standing at a machine. Some factories are light and airy but others can be dusty and dirty. Some packing work, such as packing medicines, is done in sterile conditions.

Skills and Interests

To be a packer you should:

• be able to perform repetitive tasks carefully and methodically
• have manual dexterity for some jobs
• be able to work at speed
• be able to follow instructions
• be physically fit
• have clear handwriting for labelling
• be aware of safety issues.

Entry

You do not need any particular academic qualifications to be a packer, although it may be helpful to have some GCSEs/S grades.

You may be able to get into this job through an apprenticeship scheme. Funding for apprenticeships is available for 16-24 year olds and some over-25s. To find out more, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk. For information about apprenticeships in other parts of the UK, see Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Some employers select workers via an entry test to assess practical skills.

Certain job roles may require a forklift truck licence. See the profile for Forklift Truck Operator.

Training

Training methods depend on your employer and the industry you are in. It normally includes a short induction covering health and safety, staff welfare and employment conditions. A supervisor or trainer will then show you the job tasks.

NVQs/SVQs levels 1 and 2 for Packaging Operators are available for packers. Units include:

• Start, Control and End Packaging Operations
• Carry Out Routine Machine Changeover
• Work With Hazardous Materials
• Control Printed Materials
• Carry Out Simple Sampling and Testing Operations.

For more information about these qualifications see the website for the PAA/VQ-SET awarding body in Further Information.

The British Association of Removers (BAR) runs short courses, which include packing training, for those working in the removals industry. Contact BAR for details.

Opportunities

Factories throughout the UK employ packers. Many other organisations also employ packers, including mail order companies, warehouse and storage companies, shipping and forwarding agents, large retailers, removals firms, and companies specialising in exporting goods.

Packers may progress to supervisory roles or chargehand.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only. Salary rates for packers vary considerably depending on the industry, and the speed and experience of the job holder. Some packers are paid piece-rates while others receive a basic salary.

Starting salaries are between £8,500 and £10,000 a year.
Average salaries for experienced staff are around £14,500.

Salaries can increase with night shift payments, overtime and additional duties such as driving.

Further information

Tangent House
62 Exchange Road
Watford
Hertfordshire
WD18 0TG
Tel: 01923 699480